This is a very interesting discussion.

Too bad it is probably completely dead.

I found Kristoff's and mgrego2's statements to be particularly pertinent.

I believe the term "Genius" is thrown around too loosely and wildly. If Genius is to be found as easily as suggested, then the term Genius becomes ubiquitous and consequentially meaningless.

Kristoff, do you think that being aware of mental processes necessarily transcends them? That is, if I am aware of the reactions of my mind, and I include them self-referentially in conversation, does that mean anything whatsoever?

I may be aware of thoughts and feelings and yet this awareness may bring to bear no real effect upon them.

I suppose what I am saying is that being self-referential is not the same as being self-controlled.

Regarding another issue, I do see the value, however, in expanding upon binary thinking by trying to linguistically work your way around that trap. Both/and and at the same time neither/nor is always a fascinating place.

[This message has been edited by babayada (edited July 04, 2003).]